10 of Bangkok’s Best Hidden Gems

If you think you know Bangkok, think again! Thailand’s bustling capital city is a treasure trove of great activities, delicious food and unique cultural experiences to suit every budget and travel style. For those keen to escape the well-worn tourist path and experience something another side to the city, guest blogger Phoebe Lee of Little Grey Box shares a few of Bangkok’s very best hidden gems!

Bang Lamphu Community Walk

Join the Kesorn Lamphu Volunteer Club on a guided tour through a side of Bangkok most tourists will never experience. Connect with locals as you learn about handicrafts passed down through generations, like costumes hand-sewn for Traditional Thai Masked Dance performances. Contact the team directly via email or direct message via Facebook here for information and bookings, with tours run on donation.

Fine-dining at R-Haan

After you’ve savoured some of Bangkok’s famous street food, head to R-Haan, on of the city’s Michel Star restaurants. The menu boasts authentic Thai cuisine taken to the next level, perfectly sampled in their Samrub, a family-style dining experience similar to a degustation.

Historic Ice Cream Shop

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to the historic Nuttaporn Ice Cream store in Bang Lamphu. The unassuming corner shop has been churning out delicious ice cream for over 60 years and three generations with all their flavour made from coconut milk and lavished with traditional Thai toppings like corn, pumpkin, lotus seeds and peanuts.

Wang Lang Market

Hailed as Bangkok’s best street food market, you won’t find many other tourists scouring the Wang Lang Market. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya, you’ll find an abundance of food stalls offering Thai snacks as well as clothing, arts and crafts, gifts and more. Be sure to visit before 2 pm as it closes early.

Afternoon Teat at Gingerbread House

Nestled under the shade of an 80-year-old mango tree, Gingerbread House takes up residence in a century-old house, offering the perfect respite from the Bangkok humidity. Savour refreshing sodas and a range of spectacular Thai desserts, all beautifully served in crystal dishes.

Dinner and drinks at Mahanakhon SkyBar

Take in the very best 360 degree views of Bangkok from the Mahanakhon Skywalk, 314-metres above the ground then visit Thailand’s highest restaurant and bar, Mahanakhon SkyBar, for dinner and drinks. The views here are unbeatable and the modern brasserie serves up truly delicious meals and fantastic cocktails in an elegant setting.

Wat Bowonniwet Vihara

The final resting place of the remains of two Thai Kings, Wat Bowonniwet Vihara is where many royal Princes and Kings have studied and served their Monkhood, including the current King. Gaze inside at the Buddha statue dating back to around 1357 and wander around the stunning temple grounds, a unique opportunity to experience Thailand’s history and local culture.

Wallflowers Cafe

Tucked down an alleyway, the airy and eclectic Wallflowers Cafe is a must-visit. Serving up an array of mouth-watering cakes and sweets there’s also a coffee menu boasting familiar favourites and quirky options like coffee, sparking raspberry and pop-rock candy! Sit a while and relax in this tranquil, hidden spot while enjoy the beautiful surrounds.

Sané Cafe & Workshop

Get hands on with Thailand’s culture at Sané Cafe & Workshop. Pronounced, ‘Saneh,’ traditional Thai dessert cooking classes aim to make local sweets more widely known among tourists and provide new culinary experiences. Be sure to try the coffee while you’re there!

Dinner at TAAN

Located on the top floor of Siam@Siam Design Hotel, TAAN combines delicious Thai fine dining with exceptional views of Bangkok. Carefully developed relationships with local farmers ensure all ingredients are 100-per cent local and the flavours are authentic, showcasing Thai cuisine in modern and delectable ways. Try the 9 or 6 course tasting menu for an unforgettable experience.